My brother and I arrived at parking lot on a Tuesday with just a few cars in the lot. There’s a trash can and vault toilet here. Due to reviews regarding break ins, I made certain car was empty of anything and left everything open to reveal nothing of interest and fortunately no break in. There was glass on the ground, evidence of previous break ins. There were mouse droppings inside car, however, so someone was curious.
The WTA profile is very accurate for the last 3 miles to Jade Lake. Rocky, rooty, steep, and hot in the sun. Thanks to logout volunteers, as there were no trees to clamber over. We camped at Jade Lake and noticed there are several campsites near where we were and if one continues another quarter mile or so, there are a few at the Foss River crossing, then not too far up a short climb on other side, there are a few really nice, grassy campsites also.
Using Jade as basecamp, we hiked further up the valley passing Emerald and Opal lake. At the cabin, there was an apparent bear sighting; we only heard it in the grasses. Lots of berries.
Both on the way to Jade Lake and beyond, the trail is very brushy in sections but not difficult to navigate. There are several rock scrambles, all marked with carins.
Bugs were not as bad as they could have been and evenings were cool. A huge rock slide on far side of Jade lake, of course in the middle of the night. It sounded like a freight train was going to mow us down. Plenty of water along the way even during this dry time.
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